Boston, the capital of Massachusetts and one of the oldest cities in the United States, is a city filled with history, charm, and character. With its diverse neighborhoods, vibrant culture, and top-ranked universities, it’s no wonder that so many people choose to call Boston home. But with so many options, it can be challenging to decide which neighborhood is the best fit for you. That’s why we’ve put together a guide of 20 popular Boston neighborhoods to help you find your perfect home in the city.
1. Back Bay – This upscale neighborhood is known for its beautiful Victorian brownstones, high-end shopping on Newbury Street, and proximity to the Boston Common and Public Gardens.
2. Beacon Hill – With its cobblestone streets, gas lamps, and historic brick row houses, Beacon Hill is one of the most picturesque neighborhoods in the city. It’s also home to the Massachusetts State House and the famous Cheers bar.
3. South End – This diverse and trendy neighborhood is known for its Victorian row houses, artistic community, and delicious restaurants. It’s also home to the popular SoWa Open Market, a weekly outdoor market featuring local artisans and food vendors.
4. North End – As Boston’s “Little Italy,” the North End is filled with Italian restaurants, bakeries, and cafes. But it’s not just about the food – the neighborhood is also home to the Freedom Trail and the Old North Church.
5. South Boston – Located just across the water from Downtown Boston, South Boston (or “Southie”) is known for its Irish-American roots, St. Patrick’s Day Parade, and popular beach, Carson Beach.
6. Charlestown – This historic neighborhood is home to the Bunker Hill Monument, the USS Constitution, and many of the city’s oldest homes. It also offers stunning views of the Boston skyline from the Charles River.
7. Jamaica Plain – Known as “JP” by locals, this neighborhood offers a unique blend of urban and suburban living. With its beautiful parks, diverse community, and popular restaurants and shops, it’s a popular choice for families and young professionals.
8. Cambridge – Technically not part of Boston, Cambridge is just across the river and is home to two of the world’s most prestigious universities, Harvard and MIT. It also offers a thriving cultural scene, with museums, galleries, and live music venues.
9. Somerville – Similar to Cambridge, Somerville is a city just outside of Boston, known for its eclectic mix of artists, young professionals, and families. It also boasts a growing food and drink scene, with many local breweries and restaurants.
10. Brookline – This family-friendly neighborhood is located just west of Boston and offers a mix of suburban and urban living. With top-ranked schools, beautiful parks, and vibrant commercial areas, it’s a popular choice for families and young professionals.
11. Allston/Brighton – Both Allston and Brighton are popular neighborhoods for students due to their close proximity to many universities. They also offer a wide range of affordable housing options and a lively bar and restaurant scene.
12. Roxbury – This diverse and culturally rich neighborhood is home to the Franklin Park Zoo, the Roxbury Heritage State Park, and many community gardens. It’s also known for its historic Victorian homes and row houses.
13. Dorchester – As Boston’s largest neighborhood, Dorchester offers a mix of suburban and urban living. It’s also home to the iconic Dorchester Heights Monument, which played a significant role in the American Revolution.
14. Fenway-Kenmore – This neighborhood is best known for Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox. It also offers a mix of residential and commercial areas, with many popular restaurants, bars, and shops.
15. Mission Hill – Bordering both Roxbury and Jamaica Plain, Mission Hill is a diverse and vibrant neighborhood known for its large student population, affordable housing options, and local amenities.
16. West End – Located near Downtown Boston, the West End offers stunning views of the city from its high-rise apartment buildings. It’s also home to the TD Garden, where the Boston Celtics and Bruins play.
17. East Boston – Connected to Downtown Boston by the MBTA subway system, East Boston is a popular choice for commuters. It’s also home to Logan International Airport and a thriving Hispanic community.
18. Dorchester Bay – This waterfront neighborhood is best known for its breathtaking views of the Boston skyline and its proximity to the
